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Fertility Treatments

If you have been diagnosed with a fertility issue, you may be considering fertility treatments to help you conceive.

This topic can be somewhat confusing and determining the best option for you can be daunting. To help you better understand the choices; below are explanations of the most common types of fertility treatments.

Fertility medications

Medications such as gonadotropins and clomiphene are often prescribed as a means to promote one or more eggs being released during ovulation, as well as regulate hormones necessary for reproduction. These medications are often used for about three to six months prior to becoming pregnant or moving on to another treatment method.

Between twenty and sixty percent of women using fertility medications conceive. Side effects include bloating, hot flashes, headaches, cramping, rashes, soreness, vaginal dryness, and increased possibility of having multiple fetuses.

Surgical procedures

For women who have a physical issue such as fibroids, fallopian tube defects, ovarian cysts, and endometriosis, surgery may be helpful. Between forty and sixty percent of women who have surgery to treat endometriosis become pregnant. Between ten and ninety percent of women who have surgery to repair fallopian tube defects become pregnant.

Side effects of surgical procedures include a feeling of soreness in the abdomen for a few days to a week, and discomfort in the shoulders and chest areas due to the carbon dioxide used for the procedure.

Artificial insemination

This process involves using a concentrated sperm injection, either from a donor or your partner that is inserted directly into your uterus by means of a catheter. This procedure can increase your odds of having more than one baby, and if you opt to use your partner’s sperm, he will have to produce a viable sample on the spot.

Between five and twenty five percent of women who use artificial insemination will become pregnant. Side effects of this procedure include a bit of cramping for a day or two after the injection and an increased risk of developing OHSS, which is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. It may be necessary for you to take fertility medications prior to being inseminated as well.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

This process involves using your own eggs, which are taken from your ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory setting, and then implanted into your uterus. The sperm can be from a donor or your partner.

Between twenty eight and thirty five percent of all women who undergo in vitro fertilization will become pregnant. Side effects can include an increased risk of OHSS, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, and having more than one baby. Your partner will also need to be available to provide a sperm sample as needed, and you may be required to take fertility medications before the procedure is done.

Fertility treatments are nothing to be wary of and can be quite helpful for those who are struggling to conceive. By taking the step to consult with a fertility specialist you can overcome your difficulties and begin your long awaited journey of becoming parents.

Do you have experience of any of these fertility treatments? Let us know in the comments below.